Massage therapy, traditionally is the gentle to deep manipulation of muscles, skin and other soft tissues by the hands. Long flowing strokes, firm kneading, and other techniques are blended to encourage the body's natural healing and relaxation abilities.

Bodywork usually refers to a broader category of techniques and processes. These may include gentle to vigorous rocking, movement and nurturing support of the body, as well as imagery, coaching, and body-mind correlation.

Energy work is a subtler way of interaction based on ancient concepts of chakra systems, ki, chi, or prana flow and modern models of body and mind symbology and relationships.

The essence of bodywork is to give the body, mind and spirit the strongest assistance in healing, growing, and enjoyment. These are all natural processes and as a practioner, My role is being a helping partner in assisting you do what you need to do better.

Your intent in a bodywork session will form the kind of experience you will realize. This may take the form of spiritual integration, emotional release and awareness, or renewed physical strength and vitality Massage therapy is also used to assist with injury care or prevention, chronic pain and muscle spasm, during and after pregnancy, premenstrual care, the aches associated with growth and aging, stress reduction, emotional release, soreness from physical workouts, overwork, or competition.

Massage therapy can be used in hour or hour and a half sessions to address the needs of the whole body or in half hour sessions focused on a specific injury or an area of tension. Massage therapy can also be used in conjunction with the care of a chiropractic or medical doctor or healer.

This is an individual matter. Since massage is a "hands on" experience, it necessary to gain access to the body. Although clothing may hinder some types of massage, the comfort of the receiver is the prime concern. Some issues involved are a need for trust, warmth, a sense of safety, and at times modesty.

The options of top sheets and the ability to work around some clothing are available. Since your needs are an essential part of massage, it is important for you to communicate your preferences. You can find that as you develop a working relationship with your massage therapist that your comfort level will grow.

How often you receive massage largely depends on your level of stress, amount of physical activity, and need for performance. Regular massage, like regular exercise is an investment of time in your body. While one session of massage will have a certain impact, massage therapy on an ongoing basis has a cumulative effect.

With this in mind, you can find the blend of exercise and relaxation that best suits you. The rhythm and intensity of your activities will indicate whether it is better to use massage on an ongoing basis for conditioning, stress management and growth or once in a while for injury care and relaxation.